As we draw closer to the end of what has certainly been a bonkers year in many parts of the world, we will spent the next month seeing off November and greeting the oncoming season. Ahead of the curve is the Oxford-based six-piece indie outfit Jody and the Jerms, whose new single ‘Winter Heart’ we have the pleasure of introducing to our readers today.
A poignant ballad, this song delves into themes of solitude and optimism. It boasts a rich melodic landscape, culminating in an anthemic and inspiring chorus. It also boasts the involvement of renowned world-class violinist Erica Nockalls of The Wonder Stuff, a past member of The Proclaimers, and one-half of the acoustic duo Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls.
Made up of Jody Jeger (sings and lyrics), Salma Craig (harmonies and guitar), Niall Jeger (guitars), Rob Anwood (piano and synth), Steve Clark (drums and backing vocals), and Sam Hutchinson (bass), Jody and the Jerms create endearing jangle-pop songs that are both evocative and relatable. Recorded in October 2024 at Send Hill Studios and produced by James Welch, the single was mastered by Tim Turan at Turan Audio in Oxford. Formed in 2019, they have been writing, recording and performing their blend of melodic and uplifting indie/alt-rock ever since, having enjoyed national airtime on Radio X (UK), Sirius XM (USA) and RTVE (Spain), as well as BBC 6 Music, BBC Introducing, BBC Wales and BBC Ulster.
‘This is a story about never knowing where you stand in a relationship, unrequited love and the loneliness it brings. Someone has already moved on, and you’re naively hoping the Universe will bring you back together,” says Jody Jeger, whose Belinda Carlisle-esque vocals have been pointed out as one of the delightful highlights of the band’s output. Their unique brand of “feel good” music has also drawn comparisons to several other notable artists, including The Primitives, The Darling Buds and The Sundays.
Watch the video for ‘Winter Heart’ – BELOW:
This has been quite the busy year for the band, who released their ‘Different Skies’ EP this summer, garnering acclaim across the airways and print. They also toured throughout the UK and Sweden. With over 100 gigs behind them to date, Jody and the Jerms continue to build on a reputation as an excellent live band, with further dates to be announced in early 2025.
Three albums, two EPs and many singles into their career, Jody and the Jerms plan to release their 14-track ‘Best Of’ album in spring of 2025, which will be available exclusively on limited edition coloured vinyl. Last year, the band released several singles and their ‘Wonder’ album, which was produced, mixed and mastered by RIDE legend Mark Gardener at his OX4 Sound studio near Oxford.
Championed by the late Janice Long at BBC, among others, Jody and the Jerms is a six-piece revolving around Jody Jeger (vocals) and Niall Jeger (guitars and vocals). Jody had never sung or been in a band before the Jerms formed in 2019, although Niall had been in 00s Oxford trio The Anydays, who graced the pages of NME, played with Radiohead and Supergrass, and were featured by Mark Radcliffe at BBC Radio 2.
As of November 8, ‘Winter Heart’ can be found on fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. Jody and the Jerms will be staying close to home for the next few months with a string of Oxfordshire shows.
CREDITS
Music written by Niall Jeger. Lyrics by Jody Jeger
Jody Jeger – sings and lyrics
Salma Craig – harmonies and guitar
Niall Jeger – guitars
Rob Anwood – piano and synth
Steve Clark – drums and backing vocals
Sam Hutchinson – bass
Erica Nockalls – violin
Recorded at Send Hill Studios
Produced by James Welch
Mastered by Tim Turan at Turan Audio, Oxford
Single artwork by Niall Jeger
LIVE SHOWS
November 30 – Harcourt Arms, Oxford
December 5 – Thame Snooker Club, Thame
December 15 – Bullingdon, Oxford
June 7, 2025 – Common Room, Newcastle (with Frank & Walters)
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